Hōtokuji Temple & Orihime Shrine "Maple Valley" & Ashikaga Flower Park Maple Viewing Day Trip

Hōdō-ji Temple Hōdō-ji Temple is a historic temple nestled in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, boasting a stunning garden. Within the temple grounds lies a path called “Jizo Road,” adorned with 50 Jizo Bodhisattva statues in various forms. These include the Touching Jizo, Smiling Jizo, Joyful Jizo, and Happy Jizo, all welcoming visitors with their friendly presence. Depending on the season, they may be seen wearing hats or suits, offering great comfort to those who visit. Please clasp your hands in prayer before each Jizo Bodhisattva. Every autumn, the temple’s maple leaves turn red, attracting the largest crowds of maple leaf viewers, making it a popular hidden spot for autumn foliage viewing among the Japanese! In particular, the stunning reflection of the autumn leaves can be enjoyed like at Kyoto’s “Rurikoin Temple,” and is spectacular in both summer and autumn!

Ashikaga Flower Park In addition to the spectacular wisteria flowers in spring, Ashikaga Flower Park’s “Garden of Light,” held in autumn and winter, has been selected as one of “Japan’s Three Great Illuminations,” winning first place nationwide for seven consecutive years! Over 5 million lights are used to decorate the park, filling the night with life! The “Miraculous Great Wisteria” will be illuminated to recreate the colors of the wisteria flowers in spring, bringing them to life!

Orihime Shrine Located on a hill in Ashikaga City, Ashikaga Orihime Shrine is a shrine known for matchmaking. The shrine enshrines AmenohokosenoMikoto and Amenoyachichihime no Mikoto, symbolizing the combination of warp and weft in weaving, representing the union of men and women and a happy marriage. The shrine has 229 stone steps, and after climbing them, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The seven-colored torii gates in the precincts symbolize the seven virtues of the shrine, including connections in relationships, health, wisdom, life, academics, work, and business. The shrine’s “Love Bell” is a romantic spot that couples must visit. The autumn foliage and nighttime light show also attract many tourists.